SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur (MindaNews / 17 December) — Mayor Grace Carmel Paredes-Bravo has mandated organizers of holiday parties with over a hundred guests to report to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) details of the event, including an evacuation plan, three days prior to the event to ensure the safety of attendees.
Bravo’s Executive Order No. 80 instructs event organizers to submit a comprehensive written report to the MDRRMO, detailing the event’s name, date, and venue.
The municipal hall of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, is adorned with sparkling Christmas lights, creating a festive ambiance that attracts townmates and visitors at ngiht. Photo courtesy of Gugma sa Lungsod sa San Francisco FB page
This precautionary measure aims to prevent chaotic situations, especially in the aftermath of unforeseen events, such as the 7.4 magnitude earthquake on December 2, which resulted in a stampede at the Municipal Gym during the school’s 32nd anniversary celebration.
MDRRM Officer Anna de Asis said 13 persons were injured during the stampede.
The order also stipulates that event organizers must specify details like if the party is for adults or children, the duration of the event and an evacuation route plan.
A designated event leader, responsible for coordinating with the MDRRMO and other relevant offices during evacuation or rescue efforts, should also be named in the report.
In the event of an untoward incident, the mayor’s order stipulates that organizers promptly inform the MDRRMO, the local police station, and the Bureau of Fire Protection through the most accessible means, either by calling hotline numbers or reporting in person.
Event leaders are further advised to communicate to attendees the importance of remaining calm and adhering to the evacuation route plan, ensuring their safety until they are gathered in a secure location. (Chris V. Panganiban / MindaNews)
